Alameda County FAQs for Shelter in Place Order Effective on May 4, 2020
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Alameda County FAQs for Shelter in Place Order
Effective on May 4, 2020
This document was last updated on April 29, 2020 at 12 PM
Note: Updates to the FAQs may be issued periodically, with the most recent updates reflected in
blue text.
To slow and decrease the spread of COVID-19, Alameda County joined Contra Costa, Marin, San
Francisco, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties and the City of Berkeley in issuing a legal order
directing their respective residents to shelter at home. The order limits activity, travel, and
business functions to only the most essential needs. Governor Newsom issued a similar statewide
order on March 19, 2020. Both Orders remain in effect in Alameda County, with the local order
prevailing in areas where it is more restrictive than the order issued by the State.
General Questions
1. What do the State and Alameda County Orders do?
This Orders requires that most people stay home unless they are engaged in certain
“essential activities” which are discussed more below.
For most people, this means you and those you live with should remain at home. You
may leave your home for specified reasons to make sure you have the necessities of life
such as getting food and medical supplies.
You may go outside to take care of pets, go on a walk, and exercise outside, so long as
you do not congregate in a group and maintain at least six feet of distance between you
and other people.
If you are sick you should self-isolate, including, to the extent you can, from others you
live with. Visit http://www.acphd.org/ for information about COVID-19 symptoms and
to learn how to protect yourself.
2. What does the May 4 Order do?
This new Order replaces the March 31 Shelter in Place Order as of 11:59 p.m. on May 3,
2020. This updated Order requires that most people continue sheltering in their place of
1residence through 11:59 p.m. on May 31, 2020. It allows some businesses to open that
could not operate under the March 31 Order and some low-risk activities to resume.
You are still allowed to participate in “essential activities” or to work for an “essential
business” if it is not possible for you to work from home. This means that you are
allowed to leave your home for specified reasons—like to make sure you have the
necessities of life (discussed more below) such as getting food and medical supplies, or
to perform work for an essential business that you cannot complete from your home.
You are also allowed to go outside to take care of a pet or for exercise so long as you
don’t congregate in a group and maintain at least six feet of distance between you and
other people who aren’t part of your family or living unit. The new Order also allows
“outdoor businesses” to open their facilities to the public.
Please read the Order for more information.
3. When does this Order take effect? When does it end?
As of 11:59 pm on May 3, 2020, everyone in the County must strictly follow this new
Order. This new Order will be in effect until May 31, 2020, but that date could be
changed by the County Health Officer.
4. Have the FAQs been updated to reflect the Alameda County Shelter in Place Order
extension effective May 4, 2020?
Yes.
5. Who issued the State and Alameda County Orders?
This State Order was issued by Governor Gavin Newsom, while the Alameda County
Health Officer issued our local order in a joint effort with Health Officers of the counties
of Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, and Santa Clara, and the City of
Berkeley. Those county health professionals have the authority under state law to issue
Orders to protect the health and welfare of everyone in their respective jurisdictions.
6. How does the State Order interact with local orders to shelter in place? Does it
supersede them?
The order issued by the Governor is a statewide order, and local orders may be more
restrictive. The State order and new stay-at-home order will remain in effect in Alameda
County. Where a conflict exists between this Order and any state public health order
related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the most restrictive provision controls.
7. Does the Alameda County Order cover all cities and unincorporated areas of the
County?
No. The Alameda County Order and FAQs applies to all cities and unincorporated areas
in Alameda County except the City of Berkeley. The City of Berkeley has its own public
2health jurisdiction. Click here to view the City of Berkeley’s Shelter in Place Order and
FAQs.
8. Is this mandatory or is it just guidance?
Yes, it is mandatory. These Orders are a legal Order issued under the authority of
California law. You are required to comply, and it is a crime (a misdemeanor with up to
$1,000 in fines or six months imprisonment) not to follow the Orders (although the
intent is not for anyone to get into trouble).
It is critical for everyone to follow the Orders to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and
protect themselves, their loved ones, friends, neighbors, and the whole community. All
persons, businesses, and other entities are required to comply if they do not fall within
the exemptions that are specified in the Orders.
9. Why is this Order in place?
This Order is issued based on evidence of continued significant community transmission
of COVID-19 within the County and throughout the Bay Area; continued uncertainty
regarding the degree of undetected asymptomatic transmission; scientific evidence and
best practices regarding the most effective approaches to slow the transmission of
communicable diseases generally and COVID-19 specifically; evidence that the age,
condition, and health of a significant portion of the population of the County places it at
risk for serious health complications, including death, from COVID-19; and further
evidence that others, including younger and otherwise healthy people, are also at risk
for serious outcomes.
Due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 disease in the general public, which is now a
pandemic according to the World Health Organization, there is a public health
emergency throughout the County. Making the problem worse, some individuals who
contract the virus causing the COVID-19 disease have no symptoms or have mild
symptoms, which means they may not be aware they carry the virus and are
transmitting it to others. Further, evidence shows that the virus can survive for hours to
days on surfaces and be indirectly transmitted between individuals. Because even
people without symptoms can transmit the infection, and because evidence shows the
infection is easily spread, gatherings and other direct or indirect interpersonal
interactions can result in preventable transmission of the virus.
10. Am I allowed to leave my home while these Orders are in effect?
The intent of these Orders is to ensure that people remain in their residences and
minimize social interactions outside of their immediate household unit. However, you
may leave your residence for reasons specified in the Alameda County Order. These
reasons include ensuring the health and safety of yourself and your family, engaging in
outdoor activity that does not involve close contact with other people, obtaining
3services and supplies for yourself and your family, and to perform employment
functions that are permissible under the Alameda County Order.
11. Why aren’t more businesses allowed to open?
Thanks to the collective effort and sacrifice of the 7 million residents across the Bay
Area, we have made progress in slowing the spread of the novel coronavirus, ensuring
our hospitals are not overwhelmed with COVID-19 cases and saving lives. This progress
allows us to ease some restrictions to allow lower-risk outdoor businesses and outdoor
activities to resume, so long as they strictly comply with social distancing requirements
and other protections in the Order.
The Order also adds certain business activities to the essential business list, including
construction and commercial real estate transactions—that have become critical as we
gradually head into a period of expanded economic activity in which more space to
accommodate increased social distancing will be necessary.
However, at this stage of the pandemic, we need to maintain most of the restrictions of
shelter-in-place so that we do not lose the progress we have achieved. Lifting too many
restrictions too soon could easily lead to a large surge in cases and result in avoidable
hospitalizations and deaths, and it may also lead to longer-term economic harms.
12. Does this revised Shelter in Place Order mean that I no longer need to comply with the
face covering requirement when conducting essential business and when around
others outside of their immediate household?
No, you must continue to comply with the Face Covering Order. Click here for more
information about the face covering requirement.
13. What happens if I don’t comply with the Orders?
This is a legally enforceable order issued under California law. It is a crime to violate
these Orders, and you may be punished by a fine or imprisonment for doing so.
14. For more information and updates:
Alameda County Public Health Department website:
http://www.acphd.org/2019-ncov.aspx
California COVID-19 Response website:
https://covid19.ca.gov/
California Department of Public Health COVID-19 website:
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/nCOV2019.aspx
4Centers for Disease Control and Prevention COVID-19 website:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
Alameda County New Shelter in Place Order effective May 4, 2020:
http://www.acphd.org/media/572718/health-officer-order-20-10-shelter-in-place-
20200429.pdf
California Shelter in Place Order:
https://covid19.ca.gov/img/N-33-20.pdf
Alameda County Face Covering Order:
http://www.acphd.org/media/569455/health-officer-order-20-08-face-coverings-
2020.04.17.pdf
Alameda County Face Covering Order FAQs:
https://covid-19.acgov.org/face-covering-faqs.page
Vulnerable Populations
1. Who are the most vulnerable to COVID-19?
People who are over the age of 60, and those with underlying health issues—such as
diabetes, lung disease, cancer, and compromised immune systems—are susceptible to
serious illness from COVID-19. We urge these individuals to isolate at home and avoid or
minimize essential activities outside the home.
California has launched multiple initiatives to support older Californians during the
COVID-19 pandemic.
Restaurants Deliver: Home Meals for Seniors
This program will enlist community restaurants to prepare meals that will be
delivered to older Californians who are isolating at home and who are ineligible
for other nutrition programs during California’s stay at home order. Click here for
updated information about participating localities.
Friendship Line California: 1-888-670-1360
This program will support lonely and isolated older Californians across the state.
Friendship Line California is toll-free and available to provide emotional support
to older Californians facing loneliness, isolation and anxiety.
52. How is Alameda County helping people experiencing homelessness?
The Health Care Services Agency holds regular calls with the homelessness provider
community, offers ongoing guidance for shelter and outreach providers, and
supplements hygiene efforts in encampments. The County is also working with State
and city partners to identify isolation and quarantine solutions for people who may
become ill.
If you are homeless and have COVID-19 symptoms, call Alameda Health System
510-437-8500 for telephone screening and more information.
Homeless individuals who are tested positive for COVID-19 or experiencing symptoms of
COVID-19 or been exposed to COVID-19 can be referred to temporary hotel rooms for
isolation and recovery. Eligible individuals must be referred by approved referral
agencies. To maintain the health and safety of on-site staff and clients no walk-ins will
be accepted. Visit http://www.acphd.org/2019-ncov/isolation-housing.aspx for more
information.
If you are looking for shelter, please call 211. Shelter availability is extremely limited.
211 can provide information about Alameda County's Coordinated Entry System (CES) as
well as give daily updates on bed availability at a few shelters that are not part of CES.
Shelter in Place & Social Distancing
1. What does it mean to “shelter in place?”
The term “shelter in place” means to stay in your home and not leave unless necessary
for one of the designated exceptions listed in these Orders. You may leave your home
to get food, to get a prescription, to see a doctor, to go to work if your work is essential
or to perform minimum basic operations as defined in these Orders, to take your
child(ren) to and from childcare that is authorized under these Orders, and to help
people you care for get the things they need to live and be healthy and safe.
2. What are the social distancing guidelines I still need to follow?
The best way to reduce their risk of getting sick, as with seasonal colds or the flu, still
applies to prevent COVID-19:
Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds as frequently as
possible.
Stay home if you are sick.
Avoid touching your face.
Covering coughs or sneezes (into the sleeve or elbow, not hands)
6 Avoid groups (stay at least six feet away from others)
Reduce the time you are around others outside the home, even when at least six
feet away.
Wear a face covering when out in public, as required by the Health Officer’s April
17, 2020 Order, except if a face covering is not required for you (e.g., for children
12 years of age and younger, or anyone who has trouble breathing or is unable
to remove a face covering without assistance).
3. When practicing social distancing, how far should I stay away from others if I must be
away from my home?
At least six feet, which is appropriately two to three steps away, including if you are on
the bus or train.
4. What if I’m in a line and there isn’t six feet between me and others?
You should still try to maintain at least six feet between you and others. When that isn’t
possible for short periods, do your best to maximize distance and keep the duration
short. And be sure when in line you don’t sneeze or cough onto people. If needed,
cough or sneeze into your shirt or into an elbow with clothing on.
5. What is the difference between “sheltering in place” and “social distancing”?
Sheltering in place is a more rigorous form of social distancing. There are some
differences. Sheltering at home means you:
Must stay home.
Can only leave your home for: “essential activities” or “outdoor activities,”; to
work for an “essential business” or “outdoor business,”; to provide or access
“essential governmental functions,”; to perform “minimum basic operations” for
your employer; or for “essential travel,” as those terms are defined in the new
Order (you can also see the FAQs for details).
Cannot host or attend any gatherings, except as specified in the Order or these
FAQs.
The other principles of social distancing and mitigative hygiene will continue to apply
whenever feasible. These include washing hands, using hand sanitizer, disinfecting
surfaces, not going out if sick, and staying at least six feet away from others.
Enforcement & Compliance
1. Who is enforcing the Order?
The Order has the force of law, and all persons, businesses, and other entities are
required to comply. Enforcement decisions and processes rest with local law
7enforcement entities to enforce as appropriate within their jurisdictions. In
unincorporated areas of the County, the Sheriff’s department enforces and in cities, it is
police departments.
For enforcement questions, please contact COVID19compliance@acgov.org.
Health Care
1. What should I do if I’m sick? If I or a family member need immediate medical
attention, can I leave home to go to the doctor or hospital?
If you are feeling sick, please first call your doctor, a nurse hotline, or an urgent care
center before going to the hospital. Do not go to the emergency room of a hospital
unless you are having an actual emergency. But you can and should seek medical advice
if you or a family member is sick. If it is not an emergency, please contact your primary
care provider to determine next steps. Also, you can check online resources to help you
assess symptoms if you are worried about whether you or a loved one has the COVID-19
virus. You should check https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html for
more information.
Call 911 or go to an emergency room only if you are experiencing a medical emergency.
If you need to go to the hospital, call ahead so they can prepare for your arrival. If you
need to call 911, tell the 911 operator the exact symptoms you are experiencing so the
ambulance provider can prepare to treat you safely.
2. What if I need to get healthcare from my medical provider?
You can still get your health needs addressed. You should contact your healthcare
provider to see if they are providing regular services. If you are feeling sick, please first
call your doctor, a nurse hotline, or an urgent care center. Do not go to the emergency
room of a hospital unless you are having an actual emergency.
3. What about preventive and non-urgent care?
Under the Order, all medical services, including routine and preventive care, are
considered essential. This includes, but is not limited to, mental health services,
immunizations, well-woman exams, allergy shots, eye exams, physical therapy, and
surgeries. With the exception of dental services, preventive and non-urgent care should
generally not be deferred (please see the following FAQ regarding dental services). If
possible, health care visits should be done remotely.
Contact your health care provider to see what services they are providing.
84. Can I still go to my Mental Health appointments?
Yes, mental health appointments can continue. Patients should consult with their
practitioners to determine whether it is appropriate and feasible to conduct individual
mental health appointments remotely.
5. Can I still go to my substance abuse treatment groups (e.g. Alcoholics Anonymous or
Narcotics Anonymous) or other group counseling sessions?
All participants in group counseling services should attend meetings remotely if they are
equipped to do so. Groups should make accommodations for remote support to the
maximum extent feasible. If remote participation is not feasible or advisable under the
circumstances, participation may occur in person provided that there is compliance with
the social distancing requirements set forth in the Order, including maintaining at least
6 foot distance between individuals, capping group size to reduce in-person
interactions, and wearing face coverings.
6. What mental health resources are available for people experiencing distress?
The following resources are available to help people who may be experiencing distress
or heightened anxiety right now:
o 24/7 Behavioral Health Services Department Call Center: (800) 491-9099
o Crisis Text Line: Text RENEW to 741741
o Crisis Support Services Suicide Prevention – (800) 309-2131
o Crisis Support Services Text Line – text "safe" to 20121 between 4:00p.m. and
11:00 p.m. 7 days a week
o Nationwide Hotline – (800) 273-TALK or (800) 273-8255
If you are experiencing an emergency please call 911 immediately.
7. I’m a medical provider – am I allowed to remain open for non-essential services?
Yes, if you are a medical provider your office is encouraged to remain open. Under the
Order, all medical services, including routine and preventive care, are considered
essential. This includes, but is not limited to, mental health services, immunizations,
well-woman exams, allergy shots, eye exams, physical therapy, and surgeries. With the
exception of dental services, preventive and non-urgent care should generally not be
deferred (please see the following FAQ regarding dental services). Many visits involve
exams or procedures that must be done in person, but practitioners are encouraged to
conduct appointments remotely via phone or telemedicine when it is appropriate and
feasible to do so.
8. I run a dental facility – should I continue to provide cleanings and non-urgent dental
services to patients?
No. As recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dental
facilities should postpone elective procedures, surgeries, and non-urgent dental visits,
9and prioritize urgent and emergency visits. Dentists should refer to guidance that is
available on the CDC website at: www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/infectioncontrol/statement-
COVID.html and on the California Department of Public Health website at:
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-
19/GuidanceforDentistry.aspx
If you are a patient, you should contact your dentist to inquire about whether a dental
service is urgent or should be deferred.
9. Can I get my prescriptions or other healthcare needs? Can I leave home to go to the
pharmacy to get my prescription filled?
Yes. Drug stores, licensed cannabis retailers, and other medical supply stores are
allowed and encouraged to operate. When possible, you should have prescription
medicines and healthcare supplies delivered to your home.
10. Can I continue to use reflexology, massage therapy, chiropractic, or similar services?
You may continue to use these services if your healthcare provider has determined that
they are medically necessary for you.
11. Can and should I donate blood if I am healthy?
Yes, blood banks, blood donation centers, and blood drives are exempt healthcare
operations. If you are healthy and do not have COVID-19 symptoms, you are
encouraged to donate. The need for adequate blood donations from healthy people is
critical.
12. Will this Order prevent companies working on vaccines and testing for COVID-19 from
continuing to do that work?
No. The Order exempts any business that is performing work related to the delivery of
health care, including companies working on vaccines and testing for COVID-19.
Groceries & Medicine/Prescriptions & Basic Necessities
1. Should I stock up on food, necessities like toilet paper, and on medicines?
No. You will continue to be able to purchase these items whenever you need them, as
stores selling necessary items like grocery stores, pharmacies, and hardware stores will
remain open. Please continue to buy normal quantities of these items on the same
schedule you normally do. This will ensure that there is enough for everyone.
102. Can I go to the store (grocery store, market, corner store, food bank, etc.) to buy food
and other things?
Yes. This also includes medical supplies at a pharmacy, essential home maintenance
supplies at a hardware store, or office supplies for your home business or work.
3. What if I can’t get out of the home? How can I get supplies and food?
Please contact friends, family, or others you know who can provide support. They are
permitted to pick up any of your needs. You can also order food and other supplies, and
have it delivered to your home.
4. Can I have cannabis delivered to my home?
Yes. The Order allows licensed cannabis businesses to deliver products to people’s
residences as long as your local jurisdiction allows it.
5. How will I get food and medicines I need if I must “shelter in place” in my home?
The Order specifically allows people to leave their home to buy food, purchase
medicine, and purchase other necessary items. It also encourages businesses selling
those items to remain open, and allows employees of those businesses to keep working.
6. Can grocery stores, farmers markets, and other food retailers remain open?
Yes. Grocery stores, certified farmers’ markets, farm and produce stands, supermarkets,
food banks, convenience stores, and other food retail establishments selling foods items
and non-alcoholic drinks are encouraged to stay open to provide food items and pet
supplies to the public. Section 6 of the Order requires all businesses allowed to operate
under the Order to follow any industry-specific requirements issued by the Health
Officer related to COVID-19. The Health Officer’s requirements for essential retail and
grocery stores, essential workers, and food facilities can be found here.
When visiting these places, you must help the retailer maintain Social Distancing
Requirements, including while you are shopping and standing in line.
7. Can I go shopping for things other than food/groceries?
Yes. You can shop for anything that is related to health care, office supplies, and
hardware supplies, and other necessary items. But you should minimize unnecessary
trips, wear a face covering, and maintain social distancing in the store.
8. How can I buy non-essential products if stores are closed?
Most items can be ordered online and delivered to your home, and many other non-
essential items may be available from retailers who primarily sell essential items.
9. Can I go to the bank?
Yes, you can go to the bank; but you should minimize unnecessary trips.
1110. I need to take out a loan or send cash – what kinds of financial institutions are allowed
to be open?
In addition to banks and credit unions, money remittance services, financing services at
pawn shops, check cashing services, money lenders, and similar financial institutions can
operate. For businesses that mix a financial service component with a retail or other
component, only the financial service can be open.
11. Can I go out to do laundry or have my laundry done?
Yes.
Restaurants & Meals
1. How can I access free or reduced-price meals for myself or my family?
Schools, soup kitchens, food banks, and other entities that provide free or reduced
priced food goods or meals to students or other members of the public are encouraged
to continue providing these services. However, food provided by these establishments
to the public may not be eaten on the premises but must instead be delivered or taken
away for consumption.
If you are in need of food, please call the Alameda County Community Food Bank’s
Emergency Food Helpline at 1-510-635-3663.
2. Can I go to a restaurant, café, coffee or tea shop, ice cream shop, or other foodservice
location?
Yes, but only to pick up food. You cannot dine in or eat or drink at the facility. Patrons
will not be permitted to dine or congregate in restaurants, bars, and similar
establishments.
3. Is my favorite restaurant, café, coffee or tea shop, ice cream shop, or other
foodservice location open?
Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food to the public are
encouraged to stay open, but only to provide delivery and carry out. Patrons will not be
permitted to dine or congregate in restaurants, bars, and similar establishments.
4. I don’t cook—how can I purchase meals
Restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and similar establishments may remain open to supply
meals to the public via delivery and carryout. You can also purchase prepared foods at
grocery stores, supermarkets, certified farmers’ markets, convenience stores, and other
such food retailers.
12Transportation & Travel
1. I don’t have a car. Can I ride the bus or train, or can I get a ride in my favorite ride-
share/on-demand car service or a taxi?
Yes, but public transit, ride-share services, or any other way of traveling can only be
used for Essential Travel, which means (see section 16.i):
i. Travel related to the provision of or access to Essential Activities, Essential
Governmental Functions, Essential Businesses, Minimum Basic Operations,
Outdoor Activities, and Outdoor Businesses.
ii. Travel to care for any elderly, minors, dependents, or persons with disabilities.
iii. Travel to or from educational institutions for purposes of receiving materials for
distance learning, for receiving meals, and any other related services.
iv. Travel to return to a place of residence from outside the County.
v. Travel required by law enforcement or court order.
vi. Travel required for non-residents to return to their place of residence outside
the County. Individuals are strongly encouraged to verify that their
transportation out of the County remains available and functional prior to
commencing such travel.
vii. Travel to manage after-death arrangements and burial.
viii. Travel to arrange for shelter or avoid homelessness.
ix. Travel to avoid domestic violence or child abuse.
x. Travel for parental custody arrangements.
xi. Travel to a place to temporarily reside in a residence or other facility to avoid
potentially exposing others to COVID-19, such as a hotel or other facility
provided by a governmental authority for such purposes.
When you are on public transit, you must follow the Order’s social distancing
requirements to the greatest extent feasible, including maintaining a distance of six feet
from everyone outside your household or living unit; frequently washing hands with
soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using an effective hand sanitizer; covering
coughs and sneezes; wearing a face covering when out in public, as required in the
Health Officer’s April 17, 2020 Order, except if a face covering is not required for you
(e.g., for children ages 12 and younger, or anyone who has trouble breathing or is
unable to remove a face covering without assistance); and avoiding all social interaction
outside the household when sick with COVID-19 symptoms (see
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
13When you use ride-share services for essential travel, keep in mind that you should
avoid as much as possible being in close quarters in a vehicle that has been used by lots
of other people.
2. Can I use a bike from a bike-share service?
Yes, you can use shared bikes and scooters for essential travel, such as commuting to
work as an essential employee. But keep in mind that shared bikes and scooters are not
routinely sanitized. Take precautions, including bringing sanitization wipes, not touching
your face while on the bike or scooter, and washing your hands for at least 20 seconds
immediately after.
3. Can bike repair and supply shops/mobile bike repair continue to operate?
Yes. Bike repair and supply shops are treated as an essential business (the same as auto
repair shops) because they are necessary to facilitate essential travel.
4. I work for an Essential Business, as defined by the new Order. Do I need to have a
letter from my employer or other documentation to travel?
No. You do not need to carry official documentation (and the County does not issue any)
demonstrating that you are exempt under the new Order. But be prepared to explain if
requested by law enforcement why your travel is allowable under the Order.
5. Am I allowed to commute into or out of the County for work or daily activities?
Yes, but only to perform essential activities or outdoor activities, to maintain essential
government functions, to operate an essential business or outdoor business, or to
perform minimum basic operations at a non-essential business, as those terms are
defined in the Order. You can also leave to go back home or engage in other essential
travel. Otherwise, the answer is no because that puts you and others in the community
at risk. Keep in mind that Health Officers in neighboring counties have issued the same
or similar shelter in place orders, which you will be subject to while in that jurisdiction.
That means that the neighboring county can enforce violations against you.
6. I work/volunteer in healthcare operations—can I leave home to go to
work/volunteer?
Yes. “Healthcare operations” includes hospitals, clinics, COVID-19 testing locations,
dentists, pharmacies, blood banks and blood drives, pharmaceutical and biotechnology
companies, other healthcare facilities, healthcare suppliers, home healthcare services
providers, mental health providers, or any related and/or ancillary healthcare services.
“Healthcare Operations” also includes veterinary care and all healthcare services
provided to animals, but does not include fitness, exercise gyms, and similar facilities.
14Visiting or Returning to Alameda County
1. If I’m outside the county travelling for vacation or business, am I allowed to return
home?
Yes, the Order allows you to come home.
2. I’m staying overnight in County but live elsewhere. Can I go home?
Yes, you can leave the County to return home.
Caring for/Visiting Others
1. Can I leave home to care for my elderly parents or friends who require assistance to
care for themselves? Or a friend or family member who has disabilities?
Yes. You can provide necessary care for family member or pet in another household
who has no other source of care. Be sure that you protect them and yourself by
following social distancing guidelines such as washing hands before and after, using
hand sanitizer, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance when possible, coughing or
sneezing into a tissue and then washing your hands, and wearing a face covering. If you
have early signs of a cold, please stay away from your older loved ones.
2. Can I visit loved ones in the hospital, nursing home, skilled nursing facility, or other
residential care facility?
You may visit a hospital or other healthcare facility only for the purpose of obtaining
health care services and supplies. Non-essential visitations are barred. Do not visit a
nursing home, skilled nursing facility, or residential care facility other than for the
purpose of securing care. People over 60 years of age are particularly vulnerable to
COVID-19.
If you need to know more, please contact the facility you want to visit by phone before
you visit to inquire about the status of visits. This is difficult, but it is necessary in order
to protect hospital staff, your loved ones and other patients.
3. Can I leave home to visit friends or family members in another household or living unit
if there is no urgent need or I am not performing an essential activity?
No. For your safety as well as their safety, you are not allowed to visit friends or family
members outside your own household. We need to help each other fight the spread of
COVID-19 by staying at home.
154. Can I carry out a court-ordered visit with my kids?
Yes. The Order exempts travel by court order or law enforcement.
Schools & Childcare & Home-Based Care
1. Does this Order require that schools shut down?
This Order requires that schools generally stop holding classes at physical locations
within the County. However, schools are encouraged to provide distance learning to
their students and to provide free and reduced-price lunches for takeaway or by
delivery. The Order also allows schools to provide care or supervision of children to
enable personnel to work for businesses allowed to operate under this Order or work as
essential governmental employees, provided that: (1) children are in stable groups of 10
or fewer; (2) children do not change from one group to another; (3) multiple groups in a
facility stay in separate rooms; and (4) providers or educators remain solely with one
group.
2. What if I work for a school?
Schools are subject to special requirements and restrictions, please visit the California
Department of Education website for more information at:
https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/he/hn/coronavirus.asp
Schools may allow their employees to come to work to support any continuing free
and/or reduced price-meals and other essential services. Please check with your local
school districts about the availability of such programs.
3. What if I work for a childcare facility, summer camp, and other educational or
recreational institution or programs providing care for children?
Childcare establishments, summer camps, and other educational or recreational
institutions or programs providing care or supervision for children of all ages that enable
owners, employees, volunteers, and contractors for Essential Businesses, Essential
Governmental Functions, Outdoor Businesses, or Minimum Basic Operations to work as
allowed under this Order. To the extent possible, these operations must comply with
the following conditions:
1. They must be carried out in stable groups of 12 or fewer children (“stable”
means that the same 12 or fewer children are in the same group each day).
* Note: The Alameda County Shelter in Place Order specifies a group size of 12.
However, if a childcare establishment is licensed by the California Community Care
Licensing Division (CCCL), they recommend a group size of 10. The Alameda County
Public Health Department is also recommending the smaller (more restrictive) group
size for CCCL licensed facilities.
2. Children shall not change from one group to another.
163. If more than one group of children is at one facility, each group shall be in a
separate room. Groups shall not mix with each other.
4. Providers or educators shall remain solely with one group of children.
For additional guidance around childcare facilities such as infection control, visit
http://www.acphd.org/2019-ncov/resources/childcare-schools-colleges.aspx
4. What do I do about my kids? I have to work.
If you work for an Essential Business or provide Essential Governmental Functions, as
described in the Order, you can and should continue to work. Certain employers,
schools, and community organizations will be providing childcare/daycare for
employees of essential businesses.
Essential workers searching for childcare can connect with Child Care Resource and
Referral agencies to find care. Visit First 5 Alameda County for more information.
5. Is home-based care for seniors and adults allowed?
Yes
6. I am a nanny. Will I get in trouble if I go to work?
The Order allows nannies and childcare providers caring for a child in the child’s own
home to continue working.
Home Repair, Housekeeping & Landscaping
1. Can home service workers continue to provide their services?
Home service workers can keep providing services in homes if they are essential to
health, safety, sanitation, or the necessary operation of the home. This includes
plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other services needed to maintain a safe and
sanitary home. Home construction and repair work is also allowed, as is home-based
care for children, adults, seniors, and pets.
2. What if I have a service or equipment emergency at my home, such as with plumbing
or electricity?
Service providers like plumbers, electricians, and exterminators can keep working and
providing services to the public that are necessary to maintain a livable, sanitary, and
functional household. You can call your building manager or one of these service
providers, or you can also visit your hardware store to assist with making your own
repairs.
173. Can my housekeeper continue to clean my home?
Yes. Remember to distance yourself at least six feet from your housekeeper. If you feel
sick, do not ask your housekeeper to clean your home.
4. Can my landscaper/arborist/gardener continue to maintain my yard?
Yes. Arborists, landscapers, gardeners, and similar service professionals can operate as
outdoor businesses, as that term is defined in the Order, but they must strictly comply
with social distancing requirements.
Recreation, Entertainment, Weddings,
Social & Religious Activities
1. Can I leave home to go to my church, temple, synagogue, or mosque?
No. For your safety as well as the safety of your fellow worshippers, we need to help
each other fight the spread of COVID-19 by staying at home. But places of worship can
offer remote access to services, such as by emails, video streaming, or teleconference.
2. Can I leave home to work out?
If you will be outdoors and not in close contact with other people or using equipment
that other people outside your household have touched, yes. Otherwise, no. Fitness
centers, gyms, fitness equipment at parks, climbing walls, swimming pools, and other
recreational and fitness facilities with equipment that lots of people touch or areas
where people gather close together are closed.
3. The Order prohibits non-essential travel on foot or bike—can I still go on a walk or
take a bike ride?
Yes. The Order allows you to go outside for exercise activities like walking and running,
as long as you strictly follow social distancing requirements including maintaining a
distance of six feet from everyone outside your household, frequently washing hands
with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using an effective hand sanitizer,
covering coughs and sneezes wearing a face covering when out in public, as required in
the Health Officer’s April 17, 2020 Order, except if a face covering is not required for
you (e.g., for children 12 years of age and younger, or anyone who has trouble breathing
or is unable to remove a face covering without assistance); and avoiding all social
interaction outside the household when sick with COVID-19 symptoms (see
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
184. I become anxious when cooped up in my house. Am I allowed to go to a park or on a
hike? Can I travel to a County park or open space?
Yes. Spending time outside improves mood and well-being, and is particularly beneficial
to children. You can go for walks, go to the park, and enjoy other outdoor activities. But
operators of parks, beaches, and other open spaces may restrict entry, close certain
areas, or close the whole facility altogether if the Health Officer orders those measures
to reduce crowding and limit risk of COVID-19 exposure.
While you’re on a hike or enjoying an open space area, you must strictly follow social
distancing requirements including maintaining a distance of six feet from everyone
outside your household or living unit, frequently washing hands with soap and water for
at least 20 seconds or using an effective hand sanitizer, covering coughs and sneezes,
wearing a face covering when out in public, as required in the Health Officer’s April 17,
2020 Order, except if a face covering is not required for you (e.g., for children 12 years
of age and younger, or anyone who has trouble breathing or is unable to remove a face
covering without assistance); and avoiding all social interaction outside the household
when sick with COVID-19 symptoms (see https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
5. Are trails and parks allowed to stay open?
Yes, if physical distancing is maintained when on your walks and in parks to avoid spread
of the virus. If non-compliance is noted in some trails or parks, they may be closed down
or closed to vehicle access.
Each governmental entity can make a determination regarding the restrictions on public
access to parks, beaches, and open spaces necessary to maintain social distancing.
6. Can I go to a bar, nightclub, or theater?
No. Entertainment venues like these are not permitted to be open during this Order.
7. Can I go to the gym or health club?
No. Gyms and health clubs are not permitted to operate under this Order.
8. Can I take my kids to the park and can we use playgrounds?
You can take your kids to the park or other areas to run around in open spaces, or bring
your own sports equipment to an open space as long as it is used only by members of
your own household and not shared with other people. Recreational areas with
equipment that lots of people touch or areas where people gather close together, like
playgrounds, picnic areas, barbecue areas, and dog parks, must be closed and you
cannot use them while the Order is in effect.
199. Can I use the outdoor gym equipment, and picnic and barbecue areas?
No. All recreational areas with high-touch equipment and surfaces, or that encourage
gathering must be closed, including but not limited to playgrounds, outdoor gym
equipment, picnic areas, barbecue areas, swimming pools, spas, and dog parks.
10. Can I play team sports?
Sports with shared equipment or physical contact, like soccer, basketball, baseballs,
softball, and tennis, may only be played with members of your same household or living
unit.
11. Can golf courses reopen under the new Order?
Outdoor recreation facilities that are not expressly prohibited by the Order, such as golf
courses, skate parks, and athletic fields, are permitted to open only if they comply with
any restrictions on access and use that are established by the Health Officer, another
government agency, or other entity that manages such area to reduce crowding and risk
of transmission of COVID-19. At this time, the California State Public Health Officer is
not permitting golf courses to be open.
The Health Officer will carefully monitor any changes to the State Shelter Order about
golf courses. In the event that the State relaxes restriction on golf courses, golf courses
will be allowed in the Alameda County Shelter in Place Order (section 16.a.iii.4), so long
as there is social distancing.
12. Can common recreational spaces in apartment buildings (like gyms and roof decks)
stay open?
No. For apartment dwellers, the Order’s shelter in place requirements for the
“household or living unit” means their own apartment unit, not the building or complex
as a whole. Common recreational spaces shared with others in the apartment building
or complex, like apartment gyms, barbecue areas, and roof decks, must be closed like
any other public recreational space that contains high-touch equipment or encourages
gathering.
13. What about common areas in apartments, like shared laundry rooms, that residents
need to access for sanitation needs?
Apartment residents should be allowed to access facilities that are required for
household cleaning and sanitation needs. Owners of apartment buildings must enhance
cleaning of high-touch surfaces in these areas, and residents must observe all social
distancing requirements in the Order, including: maintaining at least 6 feet of separation
from other people who are not part of their own household; washing their hands
frequently for at least 20 seconds each time (or using hand sanitizer); coughing or
sneezing into a tissue or sleeve (not their hands); wearing a face covering when out in
public, as required in the Health Officer’s April 17, 2020 Order, except if a face covering
is not required (e.g., for children 12 years of age and younger, or anyone who has
20trouble breathing or is unable to remove a face covering without assistance); and
avoiding using the shared facility if they are sick.
14. Are last rites permitted?
Last rites are permitted for non-COVID-19 and non-suspect COVID-19 people. For
COVID-19 and COVID-19 suspected cases, last rites must be performed virtually or by
phone. A priest can arrange with the health care provider to take the holy oil/water
from the priest and administer it to the patient’s forehead. However, it is up to the
health care provider to determine if it is feasible to administer the holy oil/water.
15. Are marriages/weddings allowed with social distancing and with how many people
maximum?
Yes. You can have a marriage/wedding ceremony, but only if it is not possible to
postpone it. A maximum of five individuals can participate in the ceremony, which
includes one officiant, two witnesses, and two individuals who are getting married.
Mail & Package Deliveries
1. Can I still get my mail and deliveries?
Yes. Mail and delivery services may continue to operate under the Order.
2. Can I still order the things I need online and have them delivered to my residence?
Yes. The Order allows you to go online, purchase items, and have them delivered to
your home.
Pets
1. Can I walk my dog/pet?
Yes, but you cannot use dog parks. Be sure that you distance yourself at least six feet
from others who are not part of your household. Also note that the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) has released guidance advising that you should treat pets
as you would your human family members – do not let pets interact with people or
animals outside the household. If a person inside your household becomes sick, isolate
that person from everyone else, including pets.
2. Can I take my dog to the dog park?
No. Dog parks are areas that encourage people to gather together, and are required to
close. Also as noted above, CDC has advised that pets should not interact with other
pets or people outside the household.
213. Can I go to a vet or pet hospital if my pet is sick?
Yes. You can go to the vet or pet hospital if your pet is sick. Remember to distance
yourself at least six feet from other pets and owners and wear a face covering.
Please call first to determine if the vet has any restrictions in place.
4. Can I take my dog to a groomer?
Veterinary clinics and similar animal healthcare facilities may provide grooming services,
and you may use these services as necessary to maintain the health of your animals.
Other grooming services are not allowed to operate.
Moving, Storage & Short-Term Rentals
1. Can I still move to my new residence during the Order?
Yes. You can move, but only if it is not possible to postpone the planned move, or if the
move is necessary to preserve access to shelter.
When moving into or out of the Bay Area region, individuals are strongly urged to
quarantine for 14 days. To quarantine, individuals should follow the guidance of the
United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
2. Can I still access necessary items in my self-storage unit?
Self-storage facilities are not essential businesses but they can maintain minimum
business operations and allow people to access their units to the extent they are
accessing them for medical or other essential needs.
3. Are short-term rentals such as AirBnBs allowed?
Yes with conditions. Under the County’s Order, short-term rentals can likely still operate
to a limited extent, but renters should only use short-term rentals when necessary to
essential activities. For example, if a person had to travel to the County to help build a
hospital, the person could stay in a short-term rental. Another example of an allowed
rental would be if a person needed to leave their home for their safety, e.g., domestic
violence. Hosts should make clear to potential guests that vacations and leisure travel
are not allowed under the County’s Order. Hosts should take all reasonable measures to
avoid renting to individuals displaying signs of illness and should also deep-
clean/disinfect between rentals.
22Funeral Services & Operations
1. Are funeral home providers and mortuaries allowed to continue operating?
Yes, funeral home providers and mortuaries may continue operating to the extent
necessary to the transport, preparation, or processing of remains. This means that any
employee necessary for the transport, preparation and/or processing of a body may
continue to report to these facilities to conduct their work.
2. Are funeral services/burials allowed?
Funeral services/burials may proceed with no more than 10 people. Funerals must be
conducted in strict compliance with the social distancing requirements set forth in the
Order.
Government & Non-Profit Organizations
1. Do government agencies providing essential governmental functions need to
complete and implement Social Distancing Protocols?
Governmental entities are strongly encouraged to complete Social Distancing Protocols
for each of their facilities that remain open for any essential governmental functions,
though the Order does not require them to do so. Just as with private businesses, Social
Distancing Protocols assist governments in implementing risk reduction measures
identified by the Health Officer, ensure that government agency staff and community
members accessing government services are protected, and inform government
employees and members of the public visiting the facilities about their respective
responsibilities to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Each department or agency
continuing to perform essential governmental functions at the workplace is encouraged
to complete and implement a Social Distancing Protocol for its facilities, post the
protocol where it is publicly visible, and distribute the protocol to its employees.
2. Is the local government shutting down?
No. Essential government functions will continue, including first responders, emergency
management personnel, emergency dispatchers, and law enforcement. Other
government functions or offices may be subject to reduced schedules or may be closed
as part of the effort to fight the spread of COVID-19. Each government agency identifies
the services that qualify as essential governmental functions, and designates the
personnel who will continue providing those functions.
233. I work for the government—Can I continue to go to work?
As a government employee, you can continue to go to work if your employer designates
you as an essential employee. Each government agency is responsible for determining
which of its workers are essential workers.
4. Are non-profit organizations allowed to continue operating?
Yes, if they are an essential business or outdoor business, as described in the Order, or if
they contract with a governmental entity and provide an essential governmental
function. Non-profits that are allowed to continue operating include, for instance, food
pantries, organizations providing housing for homeless residents, and organizations
providing other critical services. Other non-profit organizations cannot continue
operating their facilities, except to provide minimum basic operations, such as
maintaining the value of inventory, keeping the site safe and secure, providing for the
delivery of existing inventory to residences or businesses, or ensuring that employees
are able to work remotely. All employees may also work remotely from their residences.
Unless closer contact is necessary for their work, all employees must strictly comply
with the Order’s social distancing requirements, including maintaining a distance of six
feet from one another, frequently washing hands with soap and water for at least 20
seconds or using an effective hand sanitizer, covering coughs and sneezes, wearing a
face covering, as required in the Health Officer’s April 17, 2020 Order, except if a face
covering is not required for them (e.g., anyone who has trouble breathing or is unable to
remove a face covering without assistance); and avoiding all social interaction outside
the household when sick with COVID-19 symptoms (see
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html).
Essential Workers & Businesses (General Information)
1. What are “Essential Businesses”?
The following excerpt from the Order lists the “Essential Businesses” (see section 16.f of
the Order):
i. Healthcare Operations and businesses that operate, maintain, or repair
Essential Infrastructure;
ii. Grocery stores, certified farmers’ markets, farm and produce stands,
supermarkets, food banks, convenience stores, and other establishments
engaged in the retail sale of unprepared food, canned food, dry goods, non-
alcoholic beverages, fresh fruits and vegetables, pet supply, fresh meats, fish,
and poultry, as well as hygienic products and household consumer products
necessary for personal hygiene or the habitability, sanitation, or operation of
residences. The businesses included in this subparagraph (ii) include
24establishments that sell multiple categories of products provided that they
sell a significant amount of essential products identified in this subparagraph,
such as liquor stores that also sell a significant amount of food.
iii. Food cultivation, including farming, livestock, and fishing;
iv. Businesses that provide food, shelter, and social services, and other
necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy
individuals;
v. Construction, but only as permitted under the State Shelter Order and only
pursuant to the Construction Safety Protocols listed in Appendices B1 and B2
and incorporated into the Order by reference. Public works projects shall
also be subject to Appendices B1 and B2, except if other protocols are
specified by the Health Officer;
vi. Newspapers, television, radio, and other media services;
vii. Gas stations and auto-supply, auto-repair (including, but not limited to, for
cars, trucks, motorcycles and motorized scooters), and automotive
dealerships, but only for the purpose of providing auto-supply and auto-
repair services. This subparagraph (vii) does not restrict the on-line purchase
of automobiles if they are delivered to a residence or Essential Business;
viii. Bicycle repair and supply shops;
ix. Banks and related financial institutions;
x. Service providers that enable real estate transactions (including rentals,
leases, and home sales), including, but not limited to, real estate agents,
escrow agents, notaries, and title companies, provided that appointments
and other residential viewings must only occur virtually or, if a virtual viewing
is not feasible, by appointment with no more than two visitors at a time
residing within the same household or living unit and one individual showing
the unit (except that in person visits are not allowed when the occupant is
present in the residence);
xi. Hardware stores;
xii. Plumbers, electricians, exterminators, and other service providers who
provide services that are necessary to maintaining the habitability,
sanitation, and/or operation of residences and Essential Businesses;
xiii. Businesses providing mailing and shipping services, including post office
boxes;
xiv. Educational institutions—including public and private K-12 schools, colleges,
and universities—for purposes of facilitating distance learning or performing
essential functions, or as allowed under subparagraph xxvi, provided that
social distancing of six feet per person is maintained to the greatest extent
possible;
xv. Laundromats, drycleaners, and laundry service providers;
xvi. Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food, but only for
delivery or carry out. Schools and other entities that typically provide free
food services to students or members of the public may continue to do so
under this Order on the condition that the food is provided to students or
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